healthcare-access Archives

Investigation Reveals Georgia’s Prison Commissary Extracts an Estimated $8–15 Million Annually From Incarcerated People and Their Families Through Systematic Two-Tier Markup Scheme

Investigation reveals Georgia’s prison commissary extracts an estimated $8–15M annually through two-tier markups — charging up to 1,150% over retail for essential items like pain relievers and hygiene products.

Georgia’s Prison Commissary Extraction Machine: A Two-Tier Markup System Costing Families $8–15 Million Annually

Georgia’s prison commissary system extracts an estimated $8–15 million annually from incarcerated families through a two-tier markup scheme. Generic ibuprofen: 833–1,150% over retail. Tampons: 183–254%. A June 2025 contract renewal creates an immediate reform opportunity.

How Georgia Prisons Overcharge Families for Ramen, Soap, and Pain Pills

Georgia prisons charge families $0.90 for ramen worth $0.20 and $4.00 for pain pills worth $0.40. A GPS investigation reveals a system that takes $8-15 million a year from families.